Early Times Report
Jammu, July 2: The Amarnath Yatra 2025 commenced today with an inspiring display of unity and brotherhood at the Navyug Tunnel in Kulgam district, South Kashmir.
Local Muslims, adorned with caps and carrying flowers and garlands, gathered in large numbers to warmly welcome the first batch of pilgrims, sending a powerful message of peace and Kashmiriyat.
The emotional scene underscored the centuries-old tradition of communal harmony in Kashmir, as locals embraced the spirit of Atithi Devo Bhava (the guest is divine).
“Our welcome is a befitting reply to those who try to divide people in the name of religion. Amarnath pilgrims are not just devotees for us, but guests,” said a local resident.
This year’s Yatra holds special significance, unfolding against the backdrop of the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22 and the subsequent Operation “Sindoor.”
Rejecting the agenda of terror and hatred, residents of Kulgam, including traders and youth, joined hands with the administration to ensure the pilgrimage’s success, reaffirming the enduring essence of Kashmir’s secular values.
The ceremonial welcome was led by senior officials, including DIG South Javeef Ahmad, Deputy Commissioner Kulgam Athar Aamir Khan, ADC Viqar Ahmed Giri, Senior Superintendent of Police Kulgam Sahil Sarangal (IPS), BJP leader Ravinder Raina, SSP Traffic Ravinder Paul Singh, and Additional SP NHW Mumtaz Ali Bhatti. They were joined by members of the Qazigund Trade Association and local residents, who greeted pilgrims with warmth and hospitality.
The administration has deployed 580 companies of the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police along the Yatra route, supported by drones, CCTV, and multi-layered security checkpoints to ensure pilgrim safety. “No stone will be left unturned for the safety and convenience of the pilgrims,” an official stated, emphasizing the priority of a peaceful Yatra.
Local traders and those in the tourism sector expressed hope that the peaceful start of the Yatra will revive tourism in the Kashmir Valley, which saw a sharp decline following the April attack. “The people of the Valley have always been peace-loving,” said traders from Anantnag, Kulgam, and Pahalgam, who welcomed pilgrims with flowers and gifts while condemning the Pahalgam attack. They stressed that no act of violence could undermine Kashmir’s tradition of hospitality.
The first batch of pilgrims, though modest in number, expressed joy and gratitude for the heartfelt reception. The Amarnath Yatra 2025 has emerged as a beacon of hope, unity, and resilience, not only for the Valley but for the entire nation, showcasing the unbreakable spirit of brotherhood and shared culture. |
